ICE agents can't wear Meta glasses while they work, official memo warns

“The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has issued a memo prohibiting agents from wearing Meta’s smart glasses while on duty, citing risks of inadvertently capturing or transmitting sensitive information. The directive extends to all ICE staff and clarifies an existing ban on personal body‑worn cameras. While the agency is tightening its own use policies, internal budget documents reveal plans to develop custom smart‑glass hardware with biometric ID capabilities for future deployment. Meta has faced growing backlash over privacy concerns, and the association with ICE could further damage consumer perception of its wearable lineup. Expert Analysis: The memo underscores heightened regulatory scrutiny of wearable tech in law‑enforcement contexts, potentially slowing commercial adoption of AR glasses in the U.S. market. If ICE proceeds with its bespoke devices, it could create a government‑driven standards race that forces manufacturers to prioritize privacy safeguards, influencing consumer trust and future sales.”